The physical health benefits of moderate exercise such as walking are well-documented. Walking strengthens your heart, lungs, muscles and energy level while burning calories and building bone. But did you know that walking also benefits cognition?

When I initially heard about barefoot running and minimalist footwear, I thought it might be a rebellious boycott of big shoe makers. Like, “take that Nike, Reebok, and Adidas – free your feet and free your mind!” At first I didn’t pay much attention, but the trend stuck around long enough for me to start investigating. I was surprised by what I found…

I love to walk but Sandy Connor, who recently retired from The Clubs at Charles River Park, helped me refine my techniques to get the most out of each walk. Correct posture, arm swing and stride add up to higher intensity exercise and lower risk of injury.